SOAVE, Italy (AP) The election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the Roman Catholic Church's 267th pope, now known as Pope Leo XIV, has brought excitement and special significance to a group of students at the Marymount International School in Rome. On May 11, 2024, these 9th graders, aged 14 or 15, experienced their confirmation during a Mass celebrated by the newly appointed pope. The news of his election has left the students "absolutely elated," as shared by school head Sarah Gallagher in a Saturday telephone interview.
Marymount International School, which has ties to the American Catholic community, traditionally invites an American cardinal to confirm its students. Last year, the school selected Cardinal Prevost, who had recently been brought to Rome by Pope Francis to serve as a member of the curia. Gallagher reflected on their dinner with Cardinal Prevost after the confirmation ceremony, noting that there was no way to foresee his future as pope. She described him as a "very quiet, unassuming sort of person" who did not exhibit the traits typically associated with prominent figures in Vatican circles.
During the confirmation preparation, each of the over 30 students took the time to write letters to Cardinal Prevost, expressing their thoughts about this significant milestone in their faith journey. Gallagher mentioned that the pope took the time to connect with each student individually, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere during the sacrament, which is often viewed as a "sacrament of maturity" in Catholic tradition. She emphasized how the pope's "softness and gentleness" contributed to a sense of peace, which was evident during the Mass conducted at St. Peter's Basilica on the Thursday evening following his election.
Gallagher noted the distinct ease with which Pope Leo XIV interacted with the students, remarking on his smile and demeanor that seemed to put people at ease. Reflections on the students' choice of confirmation names were also shared, with Gallagher wondering if any of the students selected "Leo" in honor of the new pope. She recalled that names associated with his predecessor, Francis, had been very popular among students in previous years, making the idea of choosing Leo particularly extraordinary.
Overall, the unexpected journey from confirmation to papacy highlights the unique connections that can emerge within the Catholic community and the remarkable impact that leaders like Cardinal Prevost can have on the younger generation. The entire experience has not only thrilled the students but also fostered a lasting bond between them and their newly elected pope, reflecting the deep ties between faith, education, and mentorship in the life of the Church.
